Punjab SIT to Investigate Human Trafficking After US Deportations

Chandigarh, February 7, 2025: In response to the recent deportation of 104 Indians, including 30 Punjabis, from the United States, the Punjab Police has constituted a four-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe human trafficking and illegal migration. The move aims to curb immigration fraud and bring perpetrators to justice.

SIT to Lead Investigation into Human Trafficking

DGP Gaurav Yadav announced that Parveen Sinha, ADGP NRI, will lead the SIT.

Other important members are:

• ADGP/Internal Security Shive Verma
• IGP/Provisioning Dr. S Boopathi
• DIG Border Range Satinder Singh

The SIT is also authorized to prosecute the people engaged in illegal migration and human trafficking. The team is also allowed to co-opt other police officers if needed and will seek the assistance of SSPs and CPs.

Immigration Fraud Cases Up in Punjab

SIT was established after several immigration fraud cases have been reported throughout Punjab. In December 2024, Ludhiana police arrested three travel agents for their alleged role in a visa and overseas job scam. Some of the accused include:

• Sachin Punj of Lakshmi Nagar and Neha of Welcome Immigration (Ferozepur Road) have allegedly taken Rs 6 lakh from Ankita Sharma but neither returned a visa nor the amount.
• Rubina of New Kitchlu Nagar was booked for collecting Rs 8.50 lakh to send a client to Canada but delivered a fake visa.

Similarly, just days ago, Amritsar police registered a case against Satnam Singh of Kotli Khehra village on a complaint from Daler Singh of Salempura village. Daler had alleged that Satnam had promised him a valid US visa but instead sent him illegally, which forced him to face extreme hardships, including trekking through Panama’s perilous jungle routes. Daler allegedly paid Rs 60 lakh for this failed attempt.

Haryana Also Cracks Down on Illegal Migration

In a related development, Haryana Police has filed an FIR against four immigration agents under the Immigration Act. This action follows complaints from three individuals who were recently deported from the US after being misled by fraudulent agents.

Government’s Commitment to Curb Human Trafficking

The Punjab government has intensified its crackdown on human traffickers in light of increasing reports of illegal migration. Authorities urge victims of immigration fraud to report such cases to law enforcement for swift action.

The formation of SIT underscores the Punjab Police’s commitment to tackling human trafficking and immigration fraud. With the new investigation team in place, the state aims to dismantle illegal migration networks and ensure justice for affected individuals.